An Aussie's travels to air shows, aviation museums and related events around the world, with a bit of aerospace history along the way!

Australian International Airshow 2017 – It’s a Drone World Now!

There were numerous Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV’s) on static display at the Avalon Australian International Airshow 2017. Today UAV’s provide a valuable resource to military forces around the world and conduct many roles including long-loiter surveillance and controversially precision strike missions. Examples covering many of these roles were at Avalon.

General Atomics MQ-9 Reaper armed UAV at the Avalon Australian International Airshow 2017 – laser guided bombs and Hellfire missiles are displayedIsrael Aircraft Industries (IAI) Heron TP medium-altitude long-endurance unmanned aerial system (MALE UAS). Apparently IAI had discussions with the RAAF in regards to potentially purchasing the Heron TPThe huge Northrop Grumman MQ-4C Triton long-range maritime patrol UAV mock-up – the RAAF have 7 operational examples on orderMany smaller UAV’s were on display but this converted Bell 206 helicopter was one of the more unique UAV’s at Avalon 2017!